Six ways to stay in Lapland at Christmas: glass igloos, an Arctic treehouse, city hotels, log cabins, snow hotel rooms and family chalets. Book early.
Glass igloos, arctic treehouses, wilderness cabins and snow hotels
Book early: glass igloos and unique accommodation sell out 6–12 months before Christmas.
Sleep under a heated glass roof as the Northern Lights dance overhead. Aurora Village sits above the Arctic Circle outside Ivalo, and every cabin is built for watching the sky from bed.
Elegant nest-like suites raised above the snow in a silent pine forest, with panoramic windows framing the trees and the northern sky. SantaPark is the hotel's next-door neighbour.
The practical base: restaurants, shops and the railway station within walking distance, and shuttle buses to Santa Claus Village 8 km north. Compare the city's hotels and pick your spot by the river.
Traditional log cabins around Saariselkä, far above the Arctic Circle and away from town lights. Fall asleep to a crackling fireplace, wake to unbroken snow, and step out the door to check the sky for auroras.
Spend a night surrounded by snow and ice art in a hotel rebuilt from scratch every winter, or pick a warm 360° glass igloo on the same grounds. The SnowHotel opens 15 December: ice restaurant, ice bar and even a snow sauna.
Spacious chalets sleeping 4–8 around Levi, Finland's best-known ski resort: full kitchens, private saunas and the slopes close by. A home base for the festive week.
Glass igloos and treehouses sell out 6–12 months before Christmas. Book in January for the following December.
Most properties require full payment upfront for the Christmas period. Check cancellation policies carefully.
Request an aurora alarm service: many properties offer a wake-up call when the lights appear.
Many luxury accommodations include half-board (breakfast + dinner). Confirm what's included before booking.
Always verify the hotel's sauna hours: Finnish sauna culture means it's available daily, often until midnight.